Winter Driving Safety – Driving in Snow and Ice
How to Handle Winter Driving in Snow and Ice
Tis the season for holiday cheer, winter driving safety tips, and for not so cheerful winter weather-related accidents… It’s important to know how to handle the roads like a pro. Here are a few winter driving tips for handling snow and ice with a bit more ease.
- If possible, postpone your travel until the roads have been plowed, treated, and cleared. You don’t want to slide off the road, and snow plows don’t want to navigate around disabled vehicles.
- If you decide to brave the roads, make sure you know what to do in case you become stranded.
- Make sure you have your winter car emergency kit on hand.
- Slow down and adjust your speed to the conditions.
- Give snowplows plenty of room, and don’t pass them.
- Always make sure to wear your seat belt.
- Remember that driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.
- Watch for other vehicles having problems with road conditions. Make sure to give them plenty of space.
- Keep mirrors, windows, and lights clean; keep your lights on.
- Don’t pass other vehicles on or near bridges.
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
- If you don’t feel comfortable driving, pull off of the highway and park at the first safe place.
(List provided by the Missouri Department of Transportation)